Deejay Dayton's Comic Reviews

Perhaps because Thibert is doing the inks, this really looks like a jump back to the pre-Flashpoint Superman as well. For a story in which there is little dynamic action, there is plenty of variety and creativity in the art.

I also want to mention Blackjack, another member of N.E.M.O., the woman who recruited Black Manta in the first place. While not much is done with her in this particular story, I am very glad to see the use of an Aquaman villain named Blackjack. For those who have been following my history of all the DC series, Blackjack will be familiar as the first recurring villain that Aquaman faced, way back during his run in More Fun Comics, and continuing to be a constant problem for the hero throughout his first decade of stories. Blackjack had faded into obscurity long ago, and I am glad to see this character, or at least the characters name, resurrected. Or should I say, given a rebirth.

Batman summons his crew, Batwoman, Nightwing, Orphan, Spoiler and Clayface, and gives each specific duties, while he faces off for some really well drawn action against the monster. Though the other heroes get small roles, they are tidily and effectively characterized, and I am consistently enjoying watching Clayface using his powers for good, and challenging their limits.

Mikel Janin does a very good job with the art. Santa Prisca looks as deadly from the water as it does from inside the prison, and Batmans physical exertions are so well drawn you can feel his muscles tighten.

Overall, I have been very impressed with how Rebirth has been playing out. It seems that DC really thought about what they were trying to do, quite the opposite of how the New 52 came off. I have faith in the company again, which I was losing a few years back.

I enjoyed this comic so much that I am hesitant to say too much and spoil things. There is a truly stomach churning death scene that worked perfectly. And Alfreds actions while Swamp Thing is having tea were another one of the pleasant bright spots in the tale.

While this issue might very well have concluded once the mystery was solved, King spins things into an even wilder direction, and I cannot even begin to guess how this story arc is going to resolve. But I do know I am going to enjoy the ride.

Every so often a team takes on Batman, and finds a new way to view the character, new things to do with him. Thats far from an easy task, more than 50 years after the character was created, and with so many talented writers and artists having applied their skills to his adventures. But with each issue of this run, Tom King is showing himself to have achieved a new pinnacle with the dark knight.

Mister Miracle also tends to be a very dialogue heavy book, in relation to the action, but at least Miracle and the others move from spot to spot, or the action cuts between them. Even in Kings run on Batman there has been a significant use of flashbacks to show action. But he does like to script like a playwright, and delve into conversation. I have defended this before, but for once, I have to take the other side of the argument.

But seriously, there are far better ways to spend your money than to give it to a racist, homophobic asshole. Yes, Van Scriver is very talented. Sure, it is probably wrong to dismiss a persons artistic work because of their beliefs. But with the US going whole hog into Nazism, even to the degree of supporting the death penalty for gays, and encouraging religious fanatics to discriminate against them, the time has come for everyone to stand up against these people. Van Scriver gets work because of his talent, I understand that. He has just been tapped to do the illustrations for a book by Jordan Peterson, the University of Toronto professor who promotes hatred against trans people, and speaks at Neo-Nazi rallies. But if enough people boycott Van Scriver and his work, perhaps DC will shed the bigot from their roster.

While I was more than content when the original Bloodlines crossover series ended, the conclusion of the miniseries simply left me wanting more. Fortunately, the end does have a group of the new heroes heading to Metropolis, hoping to get help before they also fall under the control of the parasites inhabiting them. I hope it doesnt take another 23 years to follow it up this time.

I also love the way Dr. Fate is being used in this book, and the way Kolins illustrates the character. Is this the same Dr. Fate that so recently had his own book? I am not certain at all about that. He both looks and acts differently. More like the classic Dr. Fate of Earth-2. Is this another hint that the classic JSA will be returning?

Perhaps this storyline could be moving a little more quickly, but its not like the tale is dragging at all. The time gets spent on the emotional states of Jaime and his supporting cast, which functions well to raise the stakes and make the events of the story hold more weight.

There is an awful lot to enjoy in this book. Giffen, DeMatteis and Kolins have spun this first story arc into some magnificently designed chaos. Its such a shame to mar that with such a cheap rip-off laugh.

The conclusion of the issue is quite effective. Im sure it will be a very minor spoiler to reveal that the villain gets defeated. One can almost always be certain of that happening, eventually. What makes this ending work well is that this does not prove to be a pure victory. The characters, particularly Jaime, are really in a much worse condition than they were before the triumph. It definitely makes one need to keep on going to the next issue.

And while it remains a super hero book, the stories always remain nicely grounded in the everyday life of a teenage hero. There is just enough pathos for characters to remain sympathetic. Its actually quite the achievement to balance the humour, realism and touching moments.

So whither Blue Beetle now? DC seems determined to give this guy a book, and all but guaranteed a readership of this latest run with the guest star packed stories thus far. I really wouldnt mind a bit of a break from that, and just spend some time with Jamie and Ted Kord and the supporting cast.

Its hard to really gauge where Sebela will take the book from this issue. Its good, but not great. His skill with the interactions of the main characters is enough to make me keep going for another issue, though, which is really all that matters.

True, Giffens banter is sadly missing from this issue, but on the whole Sebela is doing a creditable job carrying on with the book. But one really cannot ignore how much Kolins is bringing to the series.

So yeah, there are some good things here, and it looks great. But I am not overwhelmed by Christopher Sebelas tales thus far. True, he has just started scripting this book, but I am missing Giffen. And I dont think that is likely to change.

Perhaps this comic is not quite for everyone. Perhaps if you take no joy in life, you will not be able to revel in the wonderful madness and dive on in through the obscure characters. If so, I pity you.

This book is about the character of Forager, yes. But far more than that, this book is about the joy one can have in reading comics. It finds humour in old, serious stories but not in a mocking way. Rather, Bug " The Adventures of Forager is about the delight that one can have swimming around in the wonderful worlds of Jack Kirby.

Just buy it. Yes, it will mean more if you are well grounded in Kirbys DC work, but you really ought to be. If you arent, then buy this and read it and THEN go dig out everything that gets referred to. Its really a win-win situation.

While it would be very easy to dismiss the miniseries, the simple fact that I was so excited by the finale means that, despite itself, this was a success. The purpose of it was to spark interest in upcoming books and stories, and it sure did that.

There are two Kirby reprints. The first is a Young Gods of Supertown story from New Gods, which features Big Bear and Serifan, from the Forever People. The other is a fun science fiction story from Tales of the Unexpected.

While it is true that only the Batman story reads well on its own, DC Nation is definitely more than just an ad for things coming up. And geez, its free, so its not like you are losing anything by reading it.

Now, I said that was the final story in the issue, and thats true, but I did save the best for last. The Harley Quinn framing sequence, of a huge party for the various DC characters, is funny and wild, very creative, and is what puts this volume over the top as a truly great Christmas special. Written by Paul Dini, with art by Elsa Charetier, my favourite moments include Black Canary and Zatannas performance of the Twelve Days of Christmas, Flash and his villains carolling around the piano, and Menor-antlers.

Out of all the DC/Looney Tunes specials that were released this week, I would say the Catwoman/Sylvester and Tweety one is the best, but the Lex Luthor/Porky Pig special runs a very close second, and the lead story is the one that really stayed with me after I read it.

Ive been missing the Legion since they lost their own book during the New 52. A new series seems in the offing, from developments in Rebirth. Until that comes into being, this special has satisfied my cravings.

Rather than stick a bunch of anthropomorphic animals into the story, Weeks evokes them while giving them human form. The Bugs Bunny character in the first tale has the head shape of the rascally rabbit, and his teeth, but is undeniably human. This is a big risk. If it didnt work, it would have felt awful. But each of the Looney Tunes characters who show up in the first part are easily recognizable, despite not looking anything like they do in the cartoons. Such re-imagining is a hallmark of a talented artist.

All the plots and high emotions reach their climax as this issue comes to a close, and there are some very effective pages where the art goes wild. Im really looking forward to how this all plays out in the finale.

While I am not sure that there is any need to revisit the characters from this story, I certainly would not be averse to reading another Deadman miniseries like this. And of course, it would HAVE to be titled Sinister House of Secret Love.

An excellent chapter all around, this also features a really funny encounter between a naked Katar Hol and Adam Strange. The art remains firmly family friendly, but Adams observation about where the hair grows on Hawkmans body gives the reader a definite mental image to fill in the blanks.

The series reaches a fulfilling conclusion, but it also leaves a big door open for the story to continue in another book. I certainly hope it does. I always enjoy Marc Andreykos storytelling, and would eagerly follow a continuation of this tale.

Sadly, I have been, more or less, waiting for this to get cancelled for a while. The series that I really enjoy never seem to make it. And Dr. Fate has only two more issues to run. I hope he gets Rebirth-ed.

Ways storytelling is excellent, and I found the tale at all times odd and entertaining. High marks also go to the artist, Nick Derrington, who creates a solidly real world for the characters to exist in. One that serves to emphasize the more unusual elements of the series.

Deringtons art does a lot to help make this work. His renderings of familiar characters are spot on, Robotman looks great, and he was so precise in the location Casey winds up in towards the end that I knew exactly where she was before the big reveal. At the same time, we get such wonderfully strange shots, like the cat licking up the fluid Robotmans brain is sitting in. And it all feels very casual and real, even when we are completely outside reality.

And so would Keith Giffen, I think, from the Existential Crisis page, which sure looks like it features Blotto the Clown from the Uh Oh Squad, a character never before seen outside of Ambush Bug stories.

And for me, well, I can tell you that I am guaranteed to give a glowing review to any story that includes Flex Mentallo radiating the words Hero of the Beach. So I guess I am stuck having to rave about this book. I dont mind that at all.

I also an really enjoying the slow development of Sam, Caseys partner in Danny the Ambulance. Sam more or less takes the role that Joshua Clay had in Morrisons run, the normal person thrust into the middle of the Doom Patrols insanity. His friendship with Casey started him down this path, but we have seen his relationship with his unusual son, and in this issue we meet his missing wife, one of Janes cult members.

Its difficult for me to imagine how this all would read to someone unfamiliar with the team, though I expect if they had any sense of fun they couldnt help but enjoy it. Still, for those who have been around, there are always great little gifts, like the t-shirt with Beast Boys image on it, in this one.

If I had to pick out something that disappointed me in this issue it would be that Mr Nobody doesnt get as much play as I had expected he would. But that is such a minor quibble. Its not like I could find a single panel in this story that would have been better served with Mr Nobody.

I really hope that the remainder of the team pop up again, and this is not just some weird new version of the Doom Patrol. I have loved the group in most of their incarnations, but this is not what I want out of the title. Not at all.

Despite that, its a good issue, well written, with very nice art. But as each issue of this apparently final storyline goes on, I wonder more and more what is meant to become of this world, and this comic, as Rebirth plays out.

Again, I dont really blame the creative team on the book for this. I have the feeling that they were working to the demands of the higher editorial staff, who wanted this book to last until the new Justice Society get introduced. And maybe that got stretched out a little longer than original expected.

There are a couple of good twists in the story, pertaining to Dr. Carver of S.T.A.R. Labs, and to the Flash himself. The final page is, once again, one that I cannot really talk about. But it uses a standard line from the strip in a strong and effective way.

What is really shocking, and heart breaking, is the revelation of Godspeeds identity. I never do spoilers, and I am being careful not to reveal too much. But its a worthy revelation, one that Williamson spent time building up, so it pays off very effectively.

Some new elements are explored with the speed force. Godspeed has some horrifying notions on how it can be used to extract information, while the Flash understands more about how it got spread among so many people in Central City, and how it is trying to pull itself back together.

But I would have to say its Wally West who winds up running away with the issue. He finally gets a Kid Flash costume, and it looks great. We also learn a bit more about what motivates Wally. The first Wally West had idolized the Flash, and so was eager to jump into the sidekick role. This Wally has a different hero to emulate, though the end result is much the same.

And it is that question of hope that makes me think this is part of the bigger picture, part of Rebirth. The Shade has lost something, and I think part of what he lost was Jay Garrick. And after all, whose helmet was seen at the end of the previous issue? Is the return of the classic JSA imminent?

It turns out that while the Shade really intended to live happily ever after with his new love, the thirst for the criminal life was too much for him to give up. The shadows that the Shade had controlled for so long began to take a life of their own, and took Hope away from him. The shadows also grab Iris West, and by the end of the issue Williamson has laid the groundwork for what looks to be an exciting battle in the following issue.

A number of other Flash villains have cameos as the story comes to a close in Iron Heights. The Rogues may be defeated, but the Flashs words to Captain Cold prove to have inspired a new direction for Len Snart.

The focus on action means there is a lack of development. As I said, that does not bother me, I trust the story, but it does mean that I preferred the first issue to this one. But all that really means is that one shouldnt dive in with issue 2. Start with issue 1. Now. Go do it. Im serious.

Marcio Takara does the art on this issue, and it is perfectly suited to the tale. Grim and gritty, Green Arrow is placed into a wasteland of ruins, and all of the characters look like they have seen better days. One can feel the dirt and sweat on all of the characters.

Now normally, that would not bode well, implying a really clean and easy resolution to the tale. But that is not what gets delivered. Yes, things do work out better than I expected them to. And the resolution is clean, in that the story comes to a very clear ending. But the larger issues, those of the way people wind up pawns in power games of major forces that simply want to exploit them, are not shunted off to the side, and are integral to the way the tale plays out.

But thats the one and only thing I can complain about with this story, and I fully admit to it being a niggly fanboy thing. So for everyone else who isnt such a nerd about things, you should have a ball reading it.

Back on Earth, the changing status of the House of Whispers has had some major detrimental affects on those who were worshippers of Erzulie, and even though these are not significant characters, its great to see the larger effects spreading.

It's very much a first chapter, with the situation introduced, but nothing resolved. And like the Rebirth issue, which re-introduced the League, it left me feeling that this story could well wind up being interesting, but at the moment, its going through its paces. Adequate, but not gripping.

It takes a while to completely crush my expectations, but already I am hoping that the second story arc for the new Justice League series will be better than this first one. Im not sure how many issues this first arc will run. The fewer the better.

Its still just another middle chapter to the tale, with nothing resolved by the end. But Hitch seems to have more fun with the story, now that he is past the introductions and set-ups. The villains still arent that exciting, but the tale is fast paced, and a heart is given to the tale in the scenes with Superman, Lois and their son.

Cyborg gets some great visuals, and proves to be of more importance than expected in the cliffhanger. No worries about me spoiling the scene. Its really not very clear what is happening, or being revealed. But it does look excellent.

Still, in time perhaps I will come to view this storyline more fondly. There are a few hints that it is part of the bigger picture, part of Rebirth in some way. And the teaser about The Forever Crisis excited me in a way that nothing else in this story did.

The shadowy beings that the League battles at the top of this issue bear some slight resemblance to the Anti-Monitors shadow demons. Although that might simply be because they are basically shapeless, and black in colour, so there is little to define them. But Rebirth is tugging away at my brain just enough to be looking for a connection.

And Ive cracked 200 words on this. I could end the review, or I could talk more about how much I loved Infinity, Inc. Remember that great Crisis issue with Helix where the border of the pages was done like a Monopoly game? Good times.

The only moment in this issue that sparked me at all was the death of one of the kids from the future, the ones who I thought might be a reworking of Infinity, Inc. As the person dies, they say that nobody knows what they are doing. Yup. That is true indeed. I have no idea. The accuracy made me laugh, but not in a good way. I also dont really care.

As has become the pattern, the story ends with the Leaguers receiving a warning about something big and reality shattering that is about to come. Even the team members themselves point out that they have heard this before, quite a few times. That threat has lost its potency, simply by being stated too many times over the past year. But still, this two parter is easily my favourite storyline in this book so far.

Yes, the Justice League are in this issue, and everyone gets an opportunity to do something, but Mera is the unquestioned star of the show. The events in the story allow the Justice League to learn what has happened to their former partner, and decide how to go forward without him.

I was, frankly, glad to read that Hitchs run on Justice League is coming to an end. The presence of the Infinity Building in this story indicates that he has been working to some master plan, some over-arching storyline which is about to come to a conclusion. What distresses me are the hints that Hitch will be helming a new Justice Society series.

This issue also confirms to me that Hitch is playing off the All-Star Squadron tale that introduced Infinity, Inc. a few decades ago (geez, was it really that long?) Could these kids be a new incarnation of that team? Last issue the thought made me cringe. After this issue, I found myself hoping that would be the case.

In the end, Hitchs run feels like a lot of build up to nothing. It bothers me that I have been saying that about so many of his issues along the way. I kept trusting that it would all pay off really well. And as legacy got going, I actually thought it would.

The resolution, and the twist that accompanies it, and both fulfilling. And overall I enjoyed this arc, aside from the red lettering. While the main Metal series has me alternately loving and hating what they are doing, the side storylines have been very well crafted to play within the larger arc, and I am tending to enjoy those more.

Politics seems to have become a dirty word in comic books. It shouldnt be. As with any medium, powerful stories, commenting on contemporary issues, can be told as enjoyable, wild romps. Priest is doing that with his run on Justice League, and doing it well.

So while there is nothing in this issue that actually pissed me off or turned me against the book, there was also very little that really excited and engaged me. Priest has lead me to expect more from his work.

But judging this issue based on what is in front of me, it does come off as one of the weaker endings to a Justice League run. Thats quite a shame, really. The most exciting page, for me, was the final one, which brings together the new incarnation of the team, and announces the No Justice miniseries.

The existence of the other new Leagues is slightly referenced, enough that it is clear that there will be some overlap between the books, and I suppose between the League and the Titans as well, given the events of the Titans Special. That takes co-ordinating to pull off effectively, but the payouts can be great when it works.

Thats not a bad thing, and the art does make the most of it. The tale ends with a particularly eerie illustration by Jimenez. The colouring, by Alejandro Sanchez, is critical for pulling off the mood of the finale.

But that is far outweighed by all the good things in this issue, in this storyline. And the excitement I feel about upcoming issues, and the explanation of who their mysterious visitor will turn out to be.

Mikel Janins art is very interesting. That sounds like a hedged compliment, but I mean it in a positive way. On the one hand, it feels very precise and restrained. But that quality simply serves to highlight the moments when it becomes extreme. The evil Batmans tongue scene, for example, and the great use of changing camera angles when Cheetah is in pursuit.

In a way, this issue is a pause in the larger storyline. But that is hardly a negative. The latest issue is just as much fun, and just as much of an exploration of the League, as the most action packed tale could be.

I have consistently been impressed with this new volume of Justice League. Drowned Earth was handled very well, and having a Legion of Doom issue before turning the book back over to the titular team was a very good idea. It immerses the reader back into the main storyline, and gets us all revved up for where the story is going to go next.

The main story should be feeling as if it is dragging, or has been abandoned. The major plot threads should feel as if they are getting in the way of the overall arc. But none of that is happening. I'd tip my hat (if I wore one) to the skilled plotting of Snyder and Tynion.

While some elements of the plot do get resolved, this is more of a midway point. Or a turning point. The story is clearly nowhere near over, but after this annual, a new direction has emerged, and the situation has changed for good.

Though the story does reach a resolution, there is a lot of groundwork that has been laid in these first three issues, an awful lot to explore and develop. I really hope this book is enough of a success to see the concepts get mined to their fullest extent.

Orlando brings the issue to a strong finish, a great teaser than guarantees the reader will have to pick up the following issue. With only one regular issue and the Rebirth special under its belt, Justice League of America has already blown the other Justice League book out of the water.

The scene between the Ray and Dreamslayer is also quite interesting. I have always found Dreamslayer the most interesting of the Extremists, and this incarnation carries that on. His motivations do not precisely line up with those of Lord Havok, but will that make Dreamslayer an asset to the League, or a greater danger to come?

And the villain himself is entertainingly introduced. We only get a bit of sense of the character, but the mythologically themed weaponry he is having produced certainly bodes well for the rest of the story arc. I can hardly wait to see it in action.

The solution to the towns economic problems, the root of the troubles in this storyline, also seemed a little too quick and easy. The benevolence of millionaires is hardly something to base an economy on, as the current world situation so clearly demonstrates.

The rest of the team get only small parts in the issue, though all of those are quite good. Black Canary not only gets stuck in a bar brawl with Lobo, as he fights against a version of Mr. Scarlet that looks a lot meaner than the Fawcett character originally bearing that name, but also gets a decent discussion about relationships with Killer Frost towards the end of the issue.

The story comes to a strong and effective ending, and I have the sense that I will enjoy what is coming up in this storyline far more than this opening chapter. And, you know, thats not a bad thing at all.

Would Makson, who is not a being with some major super powers, really be able to go toe to toe with the League for as long as he does? He is, basically, Tarzan. As savage and intent as he is in the fight scene, I found it difficult to credit that the League would not have taken this guy down in a panel or two, unless there was some distraction, someone weakening them, magic, 5th dimensional imps, or SOME form of explanation to balance the wildly divergent power level.

The finale is enough of a tease that I have faith in the remainder of the storyline, that Orlando will deliver some more interesting twists and turns along the way. But I have to admit, with Reis executing the art, I wont even mind if he doesnt.

Black Canary and the Ray stay back on Earth, and have a scene that sets up what will likely be the next story arc. They briefly discuss the Rays personal issues. Thats certainly nothing new for this book. The pairing of Ray and Black Canary did bring to mind that brief period in the 90s when different incarnations of the two characters had a fling. Whether or not the scene was intended to do that, it did make me reflect on how much things have changed, and improved, in the way both of them are now written.

The one thing that really really does not work for me is the final page. Without any spoilers, some characters are left looking at something that really shocks them. What are they looking at? Well, I guess we will find out next issue. I definitely would have preferred a stronger ending that a group of stunned looking people, who can see something that I cannot.

When the story is all over, and one can read it all as a single tale (or as a collected edition) I suspect that the problems I am feeling with this issue will be negated. But having to review this specific issue on its own merit, it just doesnt hit the mark for me.

I know a number of people really didnt care for this storyline. I can understand that, it did drag at times, but now that the overall purpose behind it is clear, I feel it was time well spent. Ryan Choi proved worthy of adopting the role of the Atom, and considering that Ray Palmer is not returning in any active capacity, the length of this tale gave the readers time to see what his life has become.

I always enjoy well crafted tales that tear a team asunder. They can play so effectively with the varying personalities of the members, and allow for some character development that works into the plot, when done right. And here, it is done right. Of all the characters to freak out and bolt, the Ray was the one I thought least likely, so it was all the more powerful to see him lose it.

Now that we are further into the run, it is clear to see how Orlando has been weaving his webs, laying in plot threads whose purpose only becomes clear later on. Thats the kind of storytelling that can take a while to pay off, but comes with so much more satisfaction when it does.

Its so hard not to talk about the character that shows up on the last page. Not someone I ever expected to see in a Justice League story, seriously. Even more exciting are the other guest stars implied to be in the next issue. I knew this was a fun story, but had no idea just what treats Orlando had waiting in the wings!

One can only really feel disappointment in a story when it comes so close to being really good. I have enjoyed the line-up, the storytelling, most of the villains, and the art on this run of Justice League of America. But the brevity of the run prevented this book from being all that it might have been.

If one is not a fan of Lobo, this issue could be skipped, I suppose. I honestly wasnt really looking forward to reviewing it, but I found myself enjoying the tale more than I expected to, which is never a bad thing.

Although this one shot is just meant as a re-introduction before the Ray joins the Atom and Vixen in a new JLA, it really made me hope he will once again get his own book. Especially with Orlando and Byrne at the helm.

Another group of villains gets assembled at the end of the issue. All major players, from a variety of different books, and people not really seen since Flashpoint. Im not sure where all the cards will land, but even from this starting point it is clear that this miniseries will be intimately connected to Rebirth as it plays out.

The one and only caveat I have is that Amanda Waller is looking a bit too svelte, especially on the last page. Rebirth brought back the heavy woman we all knew and loved/hated. Please dont make her a Barbie doll again.

The moment that struck me the most, though, was Supermans reaction, when Amanda Waller reveals that Maxwell Lord is the one they need to be dealing with. There can be no doubt, from the intensity of his expression, that in this reality Max took control of Superman, the way he did back in Sacrifice storyline.

Most of the rest of the League are the pawns of Lord and Eclipso by this point. Batman is safe, with the other members of the Suicide Squad, and Cyborgs artificial side is able to withstand Eclipsos possession, long enough for him to lay out the situation to the few remaining who can take action to stop it.

Francis Manapul and Marcus To have to be commended for the art, which demands that they render a wide variety of characters, and the pair pull this off exceptionally well. For all the chaos, there are very strong, emotional visuals that really impact one.

Although it is far too soon to tell what this book will become, I am already longing for Hawkman and/or Adam Strange, two characters will long histories with the League, and the outer space backgrounds to make them fit in here. Aside from that problem, I did enjoy this first issue a lot.

But something left me a little blah by the end of it. Perhaps it was simply that it spent its time making sure all the bases were touched, and setting up a forthcoming storyline, rather than being intrinsically exciting. Thats why I view it more like a 0 issue than a first issue.

This first issue contains the first two chapters, so we get one cliffhanger set up by Didio and Kirby, and then the resolution by Dan Abnett and Dale Eaglesham. Giffen is great at creating art that is evocative of Kirby, and while Eaglesham doesnt even try to go that route, his renderings of Kamandi and the tigers is just beautiful.

The Kamandi Challenge is definitely coming together much better than the first DC Challenge did, back in the 80s. Keeping the focus on Kamandi, and allowing the different teams to explore his world makes this a more centred experience, and all the more fun for it.

Perhaps I am being silly. As I write this review, and look back over the issue, I realize that, had that one character been given a different name, I would be writing another over the top, oh my gosh I love this Kamandi is the greatest thing ever review, as I am prone to do.

Particularly towards the climax of the issue, when Mishkingrad rises, it just doesnt look very good to me. I was disappointed, much as I hate to admit that. And the cliffhanger to close out the issue didnt quite feel on par, either. A shame, because the start and middle of this issue were really fun.

There is a solid cliffhanger to close out the issue. Indeed, there is really nothing I can find to criticize in this story. But sadly, there is also nothing that really kicks it above what has come before. I guess thats a bit of a problem when there have been so many excellent issues in this Challenge already.

There is one touch that feels odd, given the earlier issues, a page that visually recaps a number of adventures from the original comic. By and large, this series has presented a story completely independent of that one, right down to the way Renzi was used and introduced. The flashback page in this issue is difficult to reconcile with this, but I suppose such problems could be expected when a different creative team executes each chapter.

Tom King is rapidly becoming one of my favourite writers, from his work on Batman and Mister Miracle. This issue of Kamandi Challenge just increases my admiration of his talent. While I cannot say that I enjoyed the story, its far too heavy and dark for that, I certainly admired and appreciated it, and it will likely stay in my head much longer than the other issues of this book.

The world has become a darker and more dangerous place since the US elected a misogynist Nazi and his homophobic Bible thumping veep. They want to shove their white milk culture down our throats. We all need a Shade, the Changing Girl to remind us we need to stand up for ourselves, and not just passively become Wonder Wives.

There is a lot of meta stuff in this, which works exceptionally well. I love the discussion on how the archetypes of Wonder Woman and Batman are more universal, and thus more malleable, than that of Superman, who has repeatedly proved resilient to change.

Its a credit to him, and to the wonderful artwork by Gerards, that despite this sense of disappointment I still enjoyed the final issue, and am committed to coming to a greater understanding of the entire series.

Dont get me wrong, both of these stories were enjoyable enough reads, and in both cases there is some really great art to help them along. If one was not familiar with Orion or the New Gods, this issue would serve as a functional introduction. Its just not quite special enough for me.

Its the second chapter of a larger story, which means that there are some explanations, and some set-ups. A fair bit of action, and Nightwing does get to be the one to discover that there will be four monsters in total. But for me, it was Spoiler, and Gotham Girl, who stole the show.

All in all, this story arc has avoided the problems that often plague the crossover Batman tales, of having too many tie in issues, so the story just keeps moving sideways, instead of forwards. Each issue of this series so far has directly advanced the plot, which is clearly approaching a resolution.

I suppose the Christian stuff is there as a counterbalance to Ravens quasi-satanic nature. But Trigon is not meant to be Lucifer, and Raven is the daughter of a demon, not of the devil. For me, at least, it just adds to the factors in this book that are pushing me away from it.

At its best, the Milligan series used Shade, The Changing Man to explore notions of identity. Castelucci seems inclined in the same direction with this series. Its a great start, and I am eager to see where the creative team goes with it.

I havent really mentioned this in previous reviews, but each issue has been ending with a short story featuring relatively obscure old DC characters. This one has a particularly clever Dial H for Hero story appended at the back. I have to admit, as much as I enjoyed the lead story, the Dial H made far more of an impression on me, the limiting choice of letters making the story all the more powerful.

Marley Zarcone does some very nice work with the art, and I quite liked how the Meta-spots wind up resembling vinyl albums in the one panel that features the girl's turntable. Im just not certain how many more issues I will enjoy.

Perhaps the origin story of Shade, the Changing Girl, the delightful bucket list of her dreams, and her dramatic choice of action at the conclusion of the tale, would be reprehensible to those who pride themselves on the pure white nature of their Christian fascism, but for me, this was the best issue so far, and a sign of great things to come for this book.

The subplots with her friends back home, and the pursuit of her by the authorities on Meta, both continue, but are very much secondary in this issue. Thats fine. Its really well balanced, giving one a complete story within a larger story within the larger overall framework.

A few issues back I was having serious concerns about this book. I am so very pleased with the direction it has taken. Its both fun and powerful, and living up to its potential. Much like the hero herself.

More fun is added to the issue with a couple of pages of cut outs, for dressing up Shade and Honey. Not that I would ever actually cut apart a comic book. But I still very much enjoy the concept, and its execution.

It really comes down to this. If you liked Shade, the Changing Girl, you will love Shade, the Changing Woman. If you hadnt read the first series, you ought to, and may as well start picking this one up.

It's also worth noting that the back-up story features operatives of Kobra, a recurring opponent of the Suicide Squad, and seems to be laying the groundwork for that villain to return in this run. At least, I hope that is the plan.

Only one detail sounds believable to her, and its the one detail that harmonizes with the established origin of the character. Seeing the very young Digger Harkness sitting in the dusty street of his small outback town, carving boomerangs and hoping his missing father will one day come back. Reis makes this panel just heart breaking. Too much of it would have made the story sappy, but as it is, its the perfect note to contrast with the rest of the tale.

Katana has never been one of my favourite characters, and though I have read a couple tellings of the death of her husband, and how she claimed the sword that now holds his soul, it had never really moved me. Maybe Im just a cold hearted bastard. This telling of it I found far more engaging and emotional than earlier ones I had read, and it concludes with a decent tease at a bigger picture.

Its a much more serious and intense portrayal of Harley than usually appears in this book. Or her own book. Her boundaries and her loyalties are not always the clearest, but as this story proves, that is part of what makes her such a compelling character.

The Croc back-up story continues the high quality of these pieces. Amanda tells Croc information she has learned about his past. While Croc likes to play the mindless beast, Amanda knows he is not, and we get a tragic tale from his childhood. The piece does not get maudlin or try to tug the heartstrings, and succeeds all the more for that.

Now named Caitlin Snow, to match the character from the Flash tv series, Killer Frost is the latest inmate sent to Belle Reve, and the newest recruit for the team. We follow Frost as she enters the prison, gets introduced to the other members of the team, and has her first meeting with Amanda Waller. Its not a bad story in any way, but neither tale in the issue really felt like an introduction to the upcoming crossover. I would have been more pleased with this issue if no mention had been made of the Justice League at all.

The only caveat I have about this issue is the art, which just doesnt feel quite on par with either the normal run of the book, or the current miniseries. But its not bad, not at all. Just a bit of a step down.

More surprising is Captain Boomerang, partying hard, or trying to. His return from the dead has caused a change in his personality, one that he is not able to control. Try as he might, Boomerang is no longer able to be a crude sleazeball. Its downright tragic.

By the end of the issue, all of the Squad have been questioned about Amanda's death, as all of them are suspects. The conclusion seems to reveal who the killer is, but I am as positive that far more is going on here than it appears.

Still, as much as I enjoyed this issue, I do continue to bemoan the lack of political commentary in the book. The entire notion of the Squad is so well suited to that kind of thing. With the insane developments emerging daily from the US, turning a blind eye to it all seems downright negligent, if not outright complicit.

The issue feels really fast. I was surprised that I hit the end when I did. Thats not such a bad thing, really. The issue never had a dull moment. And its very clear that this is spinning into something completely out of the Squads control.

Art wise the issue is good. Not great. Edwards does a fine job, and the battle scenes are dynamic. He doesnt seem too strong on faces, though, particularly for characters who are not the main focal point of the panel.

Williams is definitely not on par with this issue. Fortunately Gus Vasquez does a really solid job with the art, particularly in the action scenes on the mission. Gotta love what happens with the airplane. So even if this is a disappointing read, its easy on the eyes.

So I really ought to have enjoyed this story more. I wanted to. Was it the art, then, that was the problem? Perhaps it was. I simply didnt feel like I was reading a continuation of the previous issue. It jarred me so much I just never got my grounding enough to have fun.

Perhaps it is simply that, for me, Suicide Squad needs at least a touch of politics. This story, more than most in the current run, has ample opportunity for opening that door. Weve got secret government conspiracies leading back to the 50s. That is ripe territory for political commentary.

The art on this one is ok, but nothing to write home about. I am not sure why there is such difficulty getting a regular art team on this title, and the quality varies widely. True, the mood remains intact despite the change, thats a positive thing. But I long for better visuals.

The rest of the Squad are shown, but largely from the mans perspective, and only have small roles in the tale. Still, most of them get good moments along the way, and Spurrier looks like he has a good sense of how to handle them.

A really fun issue, and as dark as a Suicide Squad tale ought to be. Now can we get some political commentary, please? With the US descending into fascist authoritarianism so quickly, it really needs to be addressed, and this is the best book to do so. Ostrander never shied away from it.

I always seem to be complaining about this book. And yet I do enjoy it, and look forward to each issue. I guess its one of those cases in which something is very good, but could be better, and you just keep hoping for it to be perfect.

This story is, frankly, good enough that it makes me want Boomerang to get his own series, even though I know full well that such a book would not be able to sustain itself. All I can hope for is that there will be another Suicide Squad issue that puts the spotlight on him.

Where will the team go from here? I admit, I am worried. This book seems to be a difficult one to write. Williams has set the bar pretty high. It wouldnt surprise me a bit if, a year down the road, I am looking back to these issues as the good old days.

I will admit that some of the deaths in this issue hit hard, taking out villains that I had loved, and who I still feel have potential. But overall this is just bloody swamp soaked fun, with Waller at her coldest and most manipulative.

The art is not bad at all, the saving grace I suppose, as the strange characters Boomerang has to deal with are well rendered enough to make the story readable. But all I can really say for this first instalment is that I hope Moreci gets a firmer handle on the character as the miniseries goes on.

The Amanda Waller story, which begins in this issue, and will conclude in the final issue of the miniseries, deals with Waller as a deprogrammer. This is not a side of her that is often shown, although she operated this way on Blue Beetle in an old issue of Justice League.

Excellent art on both stories, and I am also quite pleased at the contrast between them. Most Wanted must have had a successful run to warrant this new book, and I am looking forward to seeing how both stories play out.

I have loved the Suicide Squad through good incarnations and bad ones. Its far more fun when I can truly enjoy the book. And by the looks of this issue, the new series is one I will be proud to be a fan of.

The mysterious opening of the previous issue does get explained in this one, and we find out who the big villain will be for this storyline. Kid Amazo has only a thematic connection to his father, but has strong potential as a villain for the young duo.

The subplot with Alfred and Lois Lane is simply the crowing touch. The reminder we need that these are children. As clever and powerful as they may be, they are not meant to be running off for midnight missions without supervision.

The story leaves open the possibility of return for the young heroes that Robin and Superboy worked with. I have to admit, I dont really care whether they come back or not. They didnt get on my nerves, but there also wasnt a single character among them that really stood out for me.

The issue ends with a bit of a surprise, bringing back a dangling plot thread from the New 52 version. Its a bit jarring, but only a little. We will have to wait for the next issue to see how Orlando harmonizes things, but it seems that he has subtly laid the groundwork. Its so hard to talk about this without giving anything away. But I will not use spoilers!

But the middle part of the book pretty much stole the show for me. Cat Grant consumes her part of the story the way her character eats others for breakfast. Making an appearance at Karas high school, she delivers a speech about starting up Cat Co, the media conglomerate she runs on the television show. Once again I really have to credit Orlando. I could almost hear Calista Flockhart delivering these lines of dialogue, particularly when she berates Kara for doubting herself. Once again, Supergirl is dealing with someone who is both a threat and an ally, with good intentions that may not be the best thing for her.

There is one very interesting revelation, that the Emerald Empress herself is being manipulated, having come back in time to kill Saturn Girl, but discovering that the visions she was given were a lie. Is this all tied to Rebirth? Id certainly put money on that.

Sometimes a story is so well written that I forgive sub par art. In this case, the art really is strong enough to cover a largely sub par story. This issue is worth picking up, just to look at. And I hope those who read it find the story more engrossing than I did.

I also sort of cringed at the next issue blurb, which announces a villain called the Evolutionist. I know this is an American comic, but are we really going to descend into Creationist nonsense now? Pandering to Trump sucking Christians may be good for the market in the Bible thumping areas, but its repulsive to anyone with a brain.

I recently read Steve Orlando discussing this book, and why he is proud of it. It was a good piece, and made me want to like the book more than I have been. This issue made that goal much easier to achieve.

Three decent enough stories. But somehow I feel I ought to have liked this issue more. The brevity of the first tale was probably what pulled this down in my eyes. I needed more revelation and/or explanation.

There really isnt a lot else to say about this issue. Its a damn good first part of the story, but it is primarily a set up. Still, it did excite me for the resolution of Rebirth, and that was its mission, after all.

There is, perhaps, one line in the story that holds a significant clue, and the last page features a surprising return. I wouldnt have minded a bit more clarity, a bit more revelation, but the story arc has not ended, and things have been progressing very enjoyably. There is no reason to think that the next weeks issue of Action, in which Superman Reborn will conclude, will be anything other than satisfying.

But that is really about all I can say. Phil Jimenez's art and writing are top notch from beginning to the very shocking end. Whats so shocking? Suffice it to say, the last page of the issue makes one realize that the story you thought you were reading was not at all the story you were actually reading.

But the moment that really stuck in my mind was a great personal detail. Lana is uncertain of who is real, and who might be an illusion or a clone at one point in this issue. When Steel comes to help her, she demands that he tell her something that only he would know. And so we find out that Lana likes watching John Henry Irons playing bongo drums when he is naked. Its so intimate, and so absurd, that it feels completely real.

On the down side, this issue is a lot of talk and explanation, building up to a fight that is too brief, although the conclusion of it does create an interesting situation. I am eager for the story to finally take us to the big Ultrawoman/Superwoman battle that has been building up.

As much as I enjoy the big super hero action, the suspenseful finale, the lovely art and the overall concept, what has stood out for me in each and every issue of the book so far has been the narration. Lana Langs internal monologue reveals an intelligent woman who feels that she is out of her depth, but who persists nonetheless, against overwhelming odds. It honestly wasnt until I started writing that sentence that I suddenly thought She was warned. She was given an explanation. Nevertheless, she persisted. It suits this storyline perfectly.

Its really only the final page that puzzles me. I am certain that at least part of my confusion is intentional, and I trust Jimenez to explain it all in time. So far this book has vastly exceeded my expectations, and I see no reason to think it will not continue to do so.

These scenes really improve the issue. Sure the action is important, and the tale does not lack in that element. Red Sun provides a new angle on red kryptonite, and the final page sets up an awaited confrontation for Superwoman. But it was the real characterization in the flashbacks that made me genuinely appreciate the issue.

I like Lana Lang as a character, and have been enjoying her super hero career. But I still dont quite see this book burning up the stands. Its a decent read, but not a great one, and I dont foresee a long future for the series, unless something big changes with it.

Ive waxed and waned in my feelings about this series since Perkins took the reins. This would be one of the issues I am more excited about, and intrigued as to where the next one will go. I am still not as taken with the book as I was under Jimenez, but Im also not wondering if it is even worth reading. It is.

Considering that fully half of this book is devoted to the second tale, that really drags down the overall book. I know I would have loved a normal length story, edited down from King and Faboks tale, more than the volume we are presented with.

Power Girl, Raven and Wonder Girl each share memories that flesh out both Tims character, and their own. Considering the series is coming to an end, about to be Rebirth-ed, its with mixed feelings that I note how very interesting the members of the team have become.

The conclusion reveals the master villain that the team will have to face. While it is not someone that the Teen Titans have dealt with before, the villain does fall very firmly into the pattern of many of the great Titans foes.

Percy does a great job with the dialogue for the characters. Damian inspires a lot more mockery than respect from his teammates, and that pushes the boy to even more outrageous actions. While the issue is, to a degree, formulaic, the writing keeps it fresh, and the art is entertaining and dynamic.

The story ends with Damian making a sacrifice that, frankly, seems a bit out of character, considering that he has only been dealing with these teammates for a couple of issues so far. But it does serve as a good tease for the next issue.

And though its dealt with very quickly, this issue also has Kid Flash, the only one of Damians recruits who had not been part of any previous line up of Titans, come to feel that he truly is a member of the team. I expect this will get touched on again, and not too far down the road.

The plot of this issue kind of weaves around a bit. Thats the real reason that Golden Glider doesnt get the play the cover implies she will, because there are too many other plot points to touch on. The story really only gets a focus in the last couple of pages, but that does bode well for the next issue.

In the meantime, this issue is a nice diversion for the out of the loop members of the team. And it even gives us a scene between Alfred and Damien. Those two could mount their own comedy routine, I swear.

I really hope this series does well enough to warrant an ongoing book. The political climate seems so well suited to a comic book about fake news, lies, backstabbing, and questionable military actions.

Timber has become my favourite member of the Immortal Men. Thats a good thing, as Caden has not grown on me as much as he might have. Still, its early days and the kid only really finds his footing in this issue.

Oddly, the back-up stories, the Kirby reprints, are not of Sandman. Instead, this book reprints the Tales of the DNA Project shorts which ran in the pages of Supermans Pal, Jimmy Olsen. The DNA Project would, in later continuity, be known as Cadmus.

I really love how much fun the artists are having with this one. Metamorpho and Plastic Man, as well as Algon and the Element Dog, go through such bizarre physical states that every page deserves a second look, just to appreciate how well all of it was rendered.

While I wouldnt mind a little more depth to this book, I am finding it all such a fun ride that Im entertained throughout. And besides, Tom Strong would probably find it improper for me to criticize a story based on what it doesnt do, rather than evaluate what it does.

Perhaps this issue isnt quite as crazy as some that have come before. I admit it is not my favourite issue of the run to date. But it functions as it is meant to, and certainly makes one eager to see what happens next.

The three writers have certainly set themselves a challenge with this debut issue. The series could go on to blow ones mind, or it could sink into suckiness really fast. Not sure which one will happen, but I am happy to take the ride and find out.

Art wise there are some really great camera angles that are used, and though I am incapable of specifying why, some of the work feels a bit like Mignola. It doesnt look anything like Mignolas work, which is why I am not certain that I get that sensation. But its a compliment, nevertheless.

I was particularly pleased with the villain who shows up at the conclusion of the tale, revealing his role in removing everyones memories of Wally West. Way back, in the months leading up to Flashpoint, there had been hints that this man was involved in the reality altering events going on, but those all seemed to get dropped when Flashpoint struck. Abnett pays off those long abandoned clues by bringing back

As in the earlier issues, Wally West remains at the core of the story, and has a meeting with Linda Park in this one, in which he tries to connect with her, without terrorizing her. Its a very well written conversation, with a deadly kicker at the end.

I was also really pleased to see Mal and Karen Duncan back in the book. They were an important part of Titans Hunt, and were all but left out of the first story arc here. That looks to be changing, big time.

But thats fine. Its still a fun story, with a lot of good moments. And I have always had a soft spot for Bumblebee. Im old enough to remember her introduction to the Titans, when she just tossed together an outfit that allowed her to fly and shoot darts out of her bum, in order to show Mal that the Teen Titans didnt care about him. She was wrong then. And this time around, its Mal who has made the big mistake.

The art, by Booth and Rapmund, looks just great. I have enjoyed every issue they have done. And I dont really dislike the story. I imagine that, in a collected edition, it will read perfectly well. Its just not very grabbing as an issue in and of itself.

Overall, I was quite pleased with this story arc. Bumblebee always had potential, and I am glad to see it finally being put to use. I also liked the tease for the next issue. It's not one of the greatest Titans tales ever told, but it achieved its goals admirably.

Of course the next thing we will be treated to will be a re-forming of the team. DC isnt abandoning the book or the concept. It will be interesting to see how the group comes back together, who returns, and who doesnt.

Paul Pelletier and Andrew Hennessy deliver some really dynamic art. The fight scenes look great, and I particularly love the close ups of Mallah and the Brain. Its not too easy to make a jar look threatening, but it sure does here.

And while there is nothing at all wrong with the art or the story, it just isnt much of a stand out tale. I like to look for the positives in any comic that I read, because I love the whole universe of it so much. So for me all my hopes get pinned on the teasers of the last couple of pages.

Wally West was central to this title when it was launched. Roy Harper and Wonder Girl have a long history, with some teenage romance in their past. To just skate over that quickly, or ignore it completely, is a shameful disservice to those characters.

This is a fast paced chapter, but I dont mind that at all. It helps the build for Drowned Earth. Between this and the most recent issues of Justice League and Aquaman, there seems to be a very good crossover getting launched here.

I usually enjoy Abnetts writing, and am still prepared to give him credit if this book ever decides to do a proper tie in and deal with the deaths of Roy and Wally. But it needs to happen. Ignoring it will not make it go away.

Kyle Rayner just seems wildly out of place on this team. It was one thing for him to become a member of the New Titans shortly after gaining his ring, but Kyle is an old hand now, one who gained massive power, which he then forwent. He had a long tenure with the Justice League. To put him in the Titans just to wedge in another power player seems forced. And I fear they will resurrect the romance between him and Donna Troy, which was also a non-starter.

Manapul gives us a little of the outside world, enough so that we get a loose grip on what is going on. There is just enough being explained to keep a reader happy, while the overall mystery is a pleasurable puzzle.

The only real problem I have, and its a minor one, is that everything is still in flux in Wonder Womans book. That all played well in the first story arc, as Wonder Womans uncertainty as to the truth of her background and the Amazons fed into the Black Mercys hallucinatory world. But in this case, Circe seems to have a solid background with her nemesis, and I wonder how that can be, when her connection to the Amazons has yet to be revealed. Ah well, the problems of tight continuity in a changing reality are bound to pop up from time to time. Perhaps this will even tie directly in.

It's a fun issue, fast paced and action packed. Not much time for any depth of characterization, though Manapul's dialogue still manages to evoke the different heroes very well, and the Flash gets a strong moment of nobility.

Funny, now that I am writing about it I can find elements to pick at, but I certainly did not feel that way while reading it. It could be a darker story, in both art and writing. But this is Trinity, a super hero book. So I have to say its fine just the way it is.

Now some might take issue with this, as Wonder Woman does not generally act like she was possessed by a demon. But I see the line as the kind of friendly barb that good friends fling at each other. Its not an insult, its the banter that reveals how close the two are.

While this is not an issue that provides any great depth or insight into the three main characters, it does remain a fun and entertaining story. A trifle, I suppose, but one that no one would regret reading.

I am not going to spoil the big ending, but it does feature a character not seen in quite a while. There is even a damn good teaser hint that the heroes encounter along the way. And I am so looking forward to the next issue, which is the best thing one can say about the opening chapter to a story.

Had this story tried to tell us what huge peril the three heroes are in, I probably wouldnt have cared for it nearly as much. Having the heroes feel they are fighting the same old same old as they strive to find Steve makes it all so much more fun.

That is not really the fault of the creative team, as much as of the editorial decision to bring an end to the book. True, it was never a must-read, as the three heroes all had their own books, which were the cores for any development of the characters. Overall, I enjoyed Trinity, though. It might have been nice to have had something change in their relationships to each other. Something that gave a reason for the series to end.

At its best, the Adrian Chase Vigilante series served as a commentary on the increasingly violent culture emerging in the US during the late 80s and early 90s. Its certainly a topic that bears further exploration today!

I am very tempted to give this issue a perfect rating, thats how much I loved it. I havent really talked much about the actual race that takes place, but it is replete with tension and grisliness, and has some good twists towards the end. The only thing that strikes me about this book is that it really feels more designed for adult readers. I think if I had read this story at the age at which I was watching Wacky Races it would have traumatized me.

If you enjoy Justice League Dark, you cannot miss this story. If you havent been reading Justice League Dark, you really ought to be, and should probably pick this up, and the first three issues, before you get too far behind.

The story is frenetic in its pacing, picking up the characters along the way, and assuming some familiarity of the reader with them. Perhaps a little more in the way of clear action and situations might have helped. But I admit that, when I finished my first read of the issue, I was so fanboy pumped that I didn't really mind. I only spot the weakness looking through a second time for the review.